In Jewish tradition, we speak of B’tzelem Elohim–the divine image that resides within every person, regardless of ability, background, or circumstance. This fundamental belief shapes everything we do at Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS), where we understand that true community flourishes when every member has the opportunity to contribute their unique gifts and talents.
For more than 80 years, JFCS has grown alongside South Jersey’s evolving needs, transforming from a grassroots organization meeting basic necessities into a comprehensive support network that honors the full spectrum of human experience. Whether through mental health counseling, older adult services, or domestic violence support, our work remains anchored in an unwavering truth: Every person deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to reach their potential.
Yet dignity alone isn’t enough. True empowerment comes through creating meaningful pathways that help individuals with diverse abilities build skills, discover their strengths, and experience success on their own terms. This is where our Disability Services Department–the agency’s largest–transforms lives through more than a dozen innovative programs designed to uplift, educate, and empower.
As we welcome a new school year, we’re excited to share how four of these initiatives are opening doors to independence and success for young adults in our community.
Soups & Sweets: Where Culinary Skills Meet Life Skills
Step into the Jonathan Sinay Building’s state-of-the-art kitchen, and you’ll witness something remarkable: Young adults discovering their potential through the art of cooking. Our Soups & Sweets Culinary Training Program offers far more than food preparation—it’s a 10-month journey that builds confidence, fosters independence, and creates pathways to meaningful employment.
Students rotate through hands-on experiences in our commercial-grade kitchen and the bustling J-Sips Café. Financial literacy courses that teach budgeting and money management, job readiness workshops that build interviewing skills, and team projects that strengthen communication and collaboration round out their education. The program’s holistic approach extends beyond graduation, with continued support for job placement and on-the-job coaching. Students don’t just learn to cook; they develop the life skills and confidence needed to thrive in any workplace.
As one recent graduate beautifully expressed: “It’s so much more than learning how to cut or crack an egg. We’re practicing math by scaling recipes, learning teamwork, and even building communication skills while doing dishes. It’s preparing us for life.”
Project SEARCH: Transforming Potential into Professional Success
The question “What comes next after high school?” can feel overwhelming for any family, but for parents of students with disabilities, it often carries additional weight. Project SEARCH provides a powerful, hopeful answer through its internationally acclaimed internship program that bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional success.
As the Community Rehabilitation Provider for both Jefferson Health and TD Bank Project SEARCH programs, JFCS supports students as they gain real world experience in supportive, professional environments. This isn’t just job training—it’s a transformative year where students discover their capabilities, build independence, and develop the confidence that comes from meaningful work.
The program’s impact speaks for itself. This July, Project SEARCH at Jefferson Health in Cherry Hill received recognition for Excellent Employment Outcomes at the 2025 Project SEARCH Conference in Austin, Texas–a testament to the incredible growth and success our students achieve when given the right opportunities and support.
SAIL Junior: Fostering Connection and Community
Understanding that social connection is essential for overall well-being, we’re thrilled to introduce SAIL Junior this fall- -a new program designed specifically for neurodiverse young adults ages 18-24. Born from the success of our SAIL (Supports to Achieve Independent Living) program, this initiative creates space for friendship, creativity, and self-expression in a warm, inclusive environment.
Community begins with invitation, which is why we’re hosting a SAIL Junior Kickoff Event on Thursday evening, Aug. 21 at the Jonathan Sinay Building. Young adults and their families are welcome to join us for pizza, a movie, and the chance to connect with others who understand the unique joys and challenges of this life stage.
J-Time: Offering Structured Activities for Participants and Respite for Caregivers
We are excited to launch our newest program, J-Time, an after school respite program for children with disabilities aged 5-20. This program will offer engaging activities in a structured environment in the Jonathan Sinay Building after school ends, providing wonderful opportunities for participants to socialize with their peers at the end of the school day.
Transportation will be provided from the schools to the Jonathan Sinay Building and parents or caregivers will pick up their children from the program. J-Time extends the school day, affording parents and caregivers some additional respite, while also providing a safe, enriching environment for their children.
The Ripple Effect of Inclusion
At JFCS, we’ve learned that when we invest in individuals with diverse abilities, the entire community benefits. These young adults bring fresh perspectives, infectious enthusiasm, and a reminder that success comes in many forms. Their achievements challenge assumptions, inspire others, and create a more vibrant, inclusive South Jersey for everyone.
Our work in disability services reflects the Jewish principle of tikkun olam–repairing the world through acts of justice and compassion. Every skill learned, every job secured, every friendship formed, contributes to a community where differences are celebrated rather than merely tolerated.
As we look toward the new school year, we invite you to learn more about these life-changing programs at jfcssnj.org/disabilityservices. Whether you’re a family seeking support, a potential employer looking for dedicated workers, or a community member who believes in the power of inclusion, there’s a place for you in this important work. Together, we’re building a community where every person has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and shine–exactly as they were created to do.
Program Contacts:
• Soups & Sweets: Elise Vincoff at (856) 424-1333, ext. 1107 or jfcsdisabilityservices@jfedsnj.org
• Project SEARCH: Janeene Martin at (856) 424-1333, or jmartin@jfedsnj.org
• SAIL Junior: Caryn Cutler at (856) 424-1333, ext. 1182, or sailjr@jfedsnj.org
• J-Time: Caryn Cutler at (856) 424-1333, ext. 1182, or ccutler@jfedsnj.org
